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May/June 2021

THE VOICE OF HAWAII’S GREEN INDUSTRY HAWAIISCAPE.COM

ACHIEVING AND PROFITABLE THROUGH NATURAL FARMING

CONTROLLED ENVIRONMENT AGRICULTURE AND ARTIFICIAL LIGHTING TO GROW

WEED STEAMING: A SUSTAINABLE

WEED CONTROL ALTERNATIVE

DENVER, CO DENVER,

Honolulu HI 96823-2938 HI Honolulu PERMIT NO. 5377 NO. PERMIT

PAID 22938 Box O. P.

U.S. POSTAGE U.S. Council of Hawai’i - Foundation - Hawai’i of Council

PRST STD PRST Industry Landscape

DEPARTMENTS

Formed in June 1986, the Landscape Indus- 4 PRESIDENT'S LETTER try Council of Hawai’i is a state wide alliance representing Hawaii’s landscape associa- tions: Aloha Arborist Association, American 6 CERTIFICATION CORNER Society of Landscape Architects Hawaii Chapter, Hawaii Association of Nurserymen, Hawaii Island Landscape Association, Ha- 28 PEST waii Landscape and Irrigation Contractors, Hawaii Society of Urban Profession- als, Kauai Landscape Industry Council, Maui FEATURES Association of Landscape Professionals, Pro- fessional Grounds Management Society, Big Island Association of Nurserymen, and the Hawaii Professional Gardeners Association. 18 NURSERY INDUSTRY INVOLVEMENT WITH CONSERVATION

Hawaii Landscape May/June No. 60 30 TOOL TIPS is published bi-monthly by Landscape Industry Council-Foundation, 73-1110 Ahikawa Street, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 COVER

Editors Russell Galanti 10 ACHIEVING SUSTAINABILITY AND PROFITABLE Hannah Lutgen Chris McCullough AGRICULTURE THROUGH NATURAL FARMING Advertising Sales Michael Roth [email protected] 14 CONTROLLED ENVIRONMENT AGRICULTURE AND

Executive Director Garrett Webb ARTIFICIAL LIGHTING TO GROW PLANTS [email protected]

Designer 24 WEED STEAMING: A SUSTAINABLE WEED CONTROL ALTERNATIVE Roann Gatdula 10 24 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chris Timothy "Lanky" McCullough Morill President Vice President

Dave Golden Brant Brownn Treasurer Secretary

Chelsea Arnott Orville Baldos Heidi Bornhorst Russell Galanti Taylor Marsh Christy Martin 14 Edmund Reyes

Director Emeritus Jay Deputy Boyd Ready Steve Nimz Lelan Nishek Chris Dacus Garrett Webb

THE VOICE OF HAWAII’S GREEN INDUSTRY HAWAIISCAPE.COM 3 PRESIDENT'S LETTER BY CHRIS MCCULLOUGH

SUSTAINABILITY: ETHICAL IS OUR NEW NORMAL

Robert Swan, the British polar explorer turned environmentalist and author is famously quoted as saying “The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.” Please let that sink in for a moment. As the focus topic of this issue is sustainability please consider Swan’s words carefully. It is all of our kuleana, our responsibility, to be good stewards and do our best to avoid the depletion of our natural resources in order to maintain an ecological balance. Too often in our Green Industry and in our modern world in general we go to the easiest and often cheapest route to accomplish our objectives. But do we truly consider the true costs of our methodology, the negative impacts to our ‘Aina, the stress we inflict on our environment. To me it’s always been worth it to utilize the most honoring methodology, because if the method negatively impacts our fragile environment then to me it is then too costly.

As a child I loved the books of Dr. Seuss, but none more than The Lorax, which chronicles the plight of the environment and the Lorax who speaks for the . I resonated with this fable of danger of human destruction of the natural environment as a young child as my parents had connected me with the wonder and value of nature and the need to respect and protect it.

The Lorax, published just as global environmental awareness was beginning in the early 1970s, is among Seuss’ most famous works and perhaps his most controversial because of its environmental messaging wrapped in the guise of whimsical rhymes and Seussian charisma. The fable pits capitalism against biodiversity. It’s a sobering tale of the growing consequences of human intervention on global biodiversity. As the forests and wildlife crumble and disappear, the Lorax, who “speaks for the trees,” pleads for the preservation of his ecosystem. Ultimately, the Lorax’s admonitions fall on deaf ears, and the book ends with the ecosystem on the brink of extinction. But hope glimmers faintly in the book’s final passage:

Unless someone like you Cares a whole awful lot, Nothing is going to get better. It’s not.

Please consider this deeply and take this to your minds and hearts. We must all do our part and move forward in a positive way in the path of sustainability, in both our work and in everything we do. For as Robert Swan and the Lorax reminds us, we must show our care a whole awful lot. The well-being of our planet and future generations are depending on us to do so. For in the sobering but true words of Niall Fitzgerald we are reminded, “Sustainability is here to stay or we may not be.”

Chris McCullough, LICH President

4 HAWAII LANDSCAPE MAY | JUNE 2021 It’s waterproof

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THE© 2020 VOICE Neudorff OF HAWAII’S North GREENAmerica. INDUSTRY 250-652-5888 •HAWAIISCAPE.COM NeudorffPro.org 5 CERTIFICATION CORNER BY GARRETT WEBB, LIC-MANAGER, LICT-EXTERIOR ORNAMENTAL MAINTENANCE & IRRIGATION

LANDSCAPE INDUSTRY CERTIFICATION COMMITTEE ANNOUNCEMENTS The Landscape Industry Certification Committee has been formed. The members are Brandon Au, Chris Dacus, Erin Lee, Lanky Morrill, Garrett Webb, Larry Borgatti and Ty McDonald.

The new Computer-Only Landscape Industry Certification Technician Test has had very few people show interest in taking the new test. If you are already LICT certified and have paid your dues to NALP (National Association of Landscape Professionals) for your re-certification, you can add a Specialty Component, which used to be called a Module. Christopher Albores LICT, added Irrigation this April 2021 BUT, if you are NOT currently re-certified with NALP, there are two computer tests you need to take; Common Core and then the Specialty Component test, either Irrigation, Ornamental Maintenance, Turf Maintenance, Softscape Installation, or Hardscape Installation. That is the case with me. I have been a LIC Manager for a number of years, but I wanted to see what the test was like and how people would need to prepare for the computer-only technician test. I am now a Landscape Industry Certified Technician in Irrigation and Ornamental Maintenance. Want to know how I did and what my experience was like? Give me a call any time at 808 960-3650. For registration information, go to www.hawaiiscape.com

You might be interested to know that Chris Dacus will be working with the LIC Committee this year on forming a new Hawai’i-only local landscape certification test as well as hands-on classes for test preparation. It will be known as the TLC Tropical Landscape Certification. Stay Tuned!

Garrett Webb LICT State Administrator

LANDSCAPE INDUSTRY COUNCIL OF HAWAII Renew your membership online at www.hawaiiscape.com

The LICH Board of Directors invites you to be a part of our dynamic state association, Help us expand our programs by becoming a member today. You will be eligible to receive member discounts on our classes, workshops, and Annual Conference and Tradeshow. Corporate Member logos will be displayed on our web site. When you become a LICH Member you make a contribu- tion to the continued growth of our statewide association.

• Memberships for individuals are $40 per calendar year. • Company Memberships are $250 per calendar and include unlimited paid staff. To become a 2021 Member, we encourage you to join online at: www.hawaiiscape.com. You will immediately receive an Invoice and a Welcome Notice that you have be- come a member. This will help as proof of membership when signing up for HMMA Insurance. It will also help LICH build an Industry Survey which has not been done since 1986.

6 HAWAII LANDSCAPE MAY | JUNE 2021 Landscaper practices operating a turf aerator under the tutelage of Ken Sugai (orange vest). Photo credit: Christian Renz

Cliff Vianzos (second from right) discusses battery operated equipment with a small group of landscapers. Photo Credit: Ty McDonald

Back in the Saturday morning, June 4 at the Four Sea- sons Hualalai Resort. Following the class- room portion, resort Landscape Director, Saddle Erin Lee, will lead the attendees through the resort’s ornamental gardens for a hands-on show-and-tell to demon- strate best horticultural practices in Again...Again tropical landscapes. Online registration is By Ty McDonald available at: www.hilahawaii.com.

Irrigation Hydraulics, Design and Trouble- HILA re-convenes new Continuing Education classes shooting (date to be determined) will be instructed again by Lynnett Tohara, from Diamond Sprinkler and Farm Supply. ast fall I reported on the attempt- fronting the South Kohala coastline. Topics include hydraulics and design; ed deployment of the Hawaii The two lead instructors and collabo- water pressure and elevation changes, Island Landscape Association’s rators for this class were Tony Savarese elements of an irrigation plan, point of and University of Hawaii Kona from All Tool Kona and Clifford Vianzos connection, backflow prevention devices, LCooperative Extension’s new continuing from Golden Eagle Distributing. These mainline/ laterals, valve types, flow rates, education series of face-to-face work- gentlemen, along with Gary Ramos (Mau- friction loss, precipitation rates, selection shops despite the disruptions and uncer- na Kea Resort) and Ken Sugai (Keauhou of sprinkler heads and spacing. tainty caused by you-know-what. Nursery) provided instruction on proper equipment fluid mixing and storage, as The final class of this series, Proper As it turned out, after successfully well as safe operation and maintenance Pruning Techniques, instructed by Diana completing two of the four workshops practices for a wide variety of landscape Duff will be held at a later date this year. we decided to postpone the remaining equipment, including both gas-powered All classes are about three hours and events until 2021 - with the expectation and commercial-grade battery operated. approved for 3.0 CEU by NALP. For more (glass half full) that the “situation” would information about the classes and to improve significantly by then. So, here we Stations were set up for weedeater, lawn register online visit www.hilahawaii.com are already, well into 2021 with a reboot mower, blower, and hedge trimmer, or contact me at [email protected]. of the series of four hands-on classes as well as turf aerator and verticutter. underway. With an emphasis on hands-on learning, Ty McDonald is the Kona Cooperative all participants had an opportunity to Extension for the University of Hawai‘i With restrictions for outdoor gatherings operate each piece of equipment. Inter- at Manoa. recently relaxed somewhat, we set a limit active discussions included topics such as of 24 attendees - a significant increase buying tips, common equipment failures, from the 10-person limit required at our and examples of poorly maintained power More HILA News last workshop held in 2020. Of course, equipment. Our biennial Landscape now-standard six-feet physical distanc- ing and face coverings are required by all This new HILA workforce development Management Conference will be participants. program is geared toward both entry level conducted (in person) on the technicians as well as providing oppor- Big Island on Friday, October 22 We conducted the first workshop, tunities to earn recertification CEUs for at the Hapuna Beach Hotel in Equipment Operation and Maintenance, existing certified landscape professionals. South Kohala. More information on a glorious Saturday morning in early and online registration is available April at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel’s The second workshop, Basic and at the HILA website: luau grounds and North Pointe lawn area Horticultural Principles, is scheduled for www.hilahawaii.com

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Congratulations! Christopher has successfully passed the NALP Computer-Only LICT Specialty Component Irrigation Exam

Millenialby Matt Lyum and Russell GalantiRising

illenial Rising is back with an interview by Matt Lyum with Christopher Albores. Thank you to Chris for taking the Minterview and letting us get to know you!

8 HAWAII LANDSCAPE MAY | JUNE 2021 Q: Where were you raised and how did Q: Who and/or what was the inspiration and sometimes kids rush into decisions. that affect your path in life? to start this business? Be patient, find what drives and A: I was raised in Houston, Texas. A: I did not start this company but I am motivates you then don’t let anything I believe that being in an environment learning from the owner and I believe stop you from achieving your goal. like Texas gave me a good appreciation he is one of, if not the best mentor I for the outdoors which makes working could ask for in this industry. Q: Do you work with the Hawaii extension in the green industry that much more office? fun. Also, Houston is very competitive Q: What you trying to accomplish? A: I do not work with Hawaii extension in high school sports which I think A: In terms of what I want to accomplish. office made me competitive by nature and to I’m always learning and always consider always strive to be the best in whatever myself as a student of the industry, Q: Tell me about what you're working I’m working for or towards. so I just want to keep expanding my on now. knowledge, keep helping my boss grow A: Currently I’m helping my company Q: Hawaii high school? College? the company in size and revenue, and oversee the residential contracts for A: I went to The Woodlands to be a positive impact on whatever some military bases and it’s a never College Park High School project or job is in front of me. ending job but I love what I do and love making the customers happy. Q: When did you graduate and what Q: What is your best accomplishment was your major? so far? Q: Who are your biggest influences? A: I graduated from Texas Tech in A: My best accomplishment in this A: Influences would be my father first 2017 with a Major in Economics and industry so far has probably been and foremost he was my best friend a Minor in Construction Engineering winning Contractor of the Quarter and biggest mentor, but also my two from our military contractor. bosses Matt and Benny who have really Q: What is your favorite green industry helped me grow not just in this resource website? Q: What has the current generation industry but as a young man too. I was A: NALP done well? What do you think could be fresh out of college when I moved out improved by your generation? to Hawaii not knowing what to expect Q: Favorite restaurant? A: I believe my generation has done a or how long I would be here, but those A: I’m a loyal Texan, so Whataburger is good job at helping older generations two have really helped me personally my favorite place to eat adapt to the technological advances answer the many questions every made in all industries. We are finding young adult may have as they make Q: What is your favorite plant? newer and better ways to increase their way through life. A: My favorite plant would have to business and expand the market no be a bromeliad. So many different matter what line of work it is. Q: What advice would you give someone colors, and and that you thinking of choosing a career in the can find. Q: What will the landscape industry look green industry? like in 30 years? A: Advice to someone thinking about this Q: The trend is that landscape and A: In 30 years the landscape industry will as a career path would be to be ready to agriculture are aging community, be electric. Literally. Battery power is a get down in the dirt and have fun. It’s you’re bucking the trend - why? growing market for so many power such a fun industry to be in and there is A: Opportunity and Growth. I don’t think tools and equipment used by all always someone to meet or something people my age or many others for that workers in the green industry. to learn. matter truly know how big and profitable this industry really is until Q: What advice would you give high they work in it. Plants never stop school students consider a career in growing and customers keep calling, the green industry? CONTACT INFORMATION which means our job never stops. A: Advice for high school kids considering Christopher D. Albores With the technology and research this career would be to have an open Performance Landscapes going into this industry as well, I think mind and patience. There are so 808-561-7167 there is a very bright future for people many different career paths within the www.performancels.com who choose this career path. green industry that you could choose Instagram: Altorez_5

THE VOICE OF HAWAII’S GREEN INDUSTRY HAWAIISCAPE.COM 9 A bench of healthy kentia palm – these plants are 22 months old in three-gallon pots. This is usually the age and size of the plants when we would see chlorotic symptoms and overall plant decline due to various rot pathogens. However, since implementing the new cultivation practices plants remain healthy.

Achieving Sustainable and Profitable Agriculture through Natural Farming By Joanna Bloese, Ph.D.

ost growers strive for with you today. I had the opportunity to standpoint. Certainly, the short-term sustainable agriculture sit down with Marc and learn from Koha- benefits were great, however, we did not operations, but at the end la Kentia’s experience. yet know the long-term consequences of the day they must remain Marc has worked with plants all of of these inputs on our health and on the Mprofitable. The concept of sustainable his life. He received his degree from the environment. As more information came agriculture encompasses a wide range National Tropical Botanical Garden on to light, an organic movement was born.” of strategies and practices, however the Kauai. After which he worked at various At a time when many scientists were common thread among them is that all vegetable farms in Lalamilo. Later on, he concerned with world hunger and the these various methods strive to mimic worked at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel in the perceived inability of available arable land natural ecological processes. landscaping department before starting to feed a growing global population, the When we hear “Organic Agriculture” his own landscaping business. “I have inputs birthed from the Green Revolution naturally, questions are raised, such as, is seen the transition of agriculture from in- were a little short of miraculous. it more costly? How will it affect yield? Is put heavy practices promoted during the Over the years, organic agriculture it more laborious? Green Revolution of the 70’s that pushed has become highly commercialized and Marc Kinoshita has been the farm synthetic fertilizers, chemical pesticides big chemical companies are the suppliers manager for the past year and a half at and higher yielding varieties to the of many organic inputs. Marc believes Kohala Kentia, the largest Kentia Nursery ever-expanding organic agriculture mar- the younger generation demands alter- in the nation. If, when at home tonight, ket we experience today” he tells me. Now native methods of sustainable future for you indulge in The Bachelor or another he is seeing another shift from organic themselves. “Our youth understand the reality show, peppered in the background farming to natural farming, which has seriousness of climate change and believe you are likely to see Kentia palm. Big been gradually gaining popularity. there is a way to produce food naturally rental companies in California use them When pressed on why he believed and sustainably, even if it is not certified to decorate offices and they are in many this shift was occurring Marc elaborated organic.” popular Hollywood tv shows; these plants on the dramatically increased yields due Kohala Kentia had been struggling likely came from Hawai’i. to the chemical inputs and technology with chlorotic plants for the past 8-10 However proud we are to boast about of the Green Revolution. He mentioned years. They knew they were dealing with the production of Kentia palms in Hawaii, “these outcomes were undoubtedly pathogens such as Pythium, Phytoph- we hope to share a more interesting story appealing, especially from an economic thora, and Rhizoctonia, because they had 10 HAWAII LANDSCAPE MAY | JUNE 2021 sent samples to Brian Bushe at Agricultur- Marc Kinoshita shows me around Kohala Kentia nursery. These one and a half year old kentia al Diagnostic Service Center (ADSC) lab palms are, dark green, healthy and thriving. in Hilo. Marc said “when I began working here, we were losing about 35-40% of our product due to these diseases. Symptoms included severe yellowing of and root rot. We were spending exorbitant amounts of money on fungicides and chemical fertilizers with limited to no success.” I asked him what changes were made to the cultivation practices since he began. It was clear a “Top-Down” approach that targeted the disease directly was not working and it came with a high price tag. He switched tactics and decided to take a “Bottom-Up” approach, and start from the ground up. They began with healthy, clean media and proper nutrition. Kohala Kentia switched the growing media from red cin- der to high porosity black cinder. Which we believe played a large role in increasing overall plant health. Marc then targeted proper from BOTH a bottom-up and top-down approach by incorporating HP Pro-Mix with biofun- gicide and mycorrhizae into the growing media, and applied weekly foliar nutrition applications of Nutrient Express 4-41-27, you arrive at the nursery is evident. on the market, however we have to apply and a natural biostimulant cocktail. Marc “Everyone told me Rhapis and Kentia them less often. Marc explains “there could start seeing a change in about three palm leaves were too thick and would not will always be labor costs when it comes months. Within six months everyone saw absorb nutrients through their leaves. I to agriculture, and there are labor costs dramatic differences. began spraying natural farming inputs in many natural farming practices.” He Hiram Hagio, the previous manager, in May, without telling anyone what I applies a foliar nutrition application every said “the palms are looking like when they was doing, I didn’t accept the position week using a Maruyama four-gallon back- first started 20 years ago with chemical until July, 2019, after I saw changes in the pack sprayer. However, he can cover two inputs.” plants” says Marc. and a half acres in less than two hours Due to these changes, Kohala Kentia Marc explained “We are raising works and treat the entire property in a day and reduced its quantity of non-marketable of art.” Not only must they raise healthy half by himself. “More is not always bet- product from 40% to less than 10%. This plants, which is an art in and of itself, but ter” says Marc, “but consistency matters. “ is a dramatic transformation given the the planters must match the right palms Marc asserts that natural farming is cultivation changes have only been imple- together so the pots look balanced. It is no incredibly simple and easy. “By targeting mented for a year and a half. It is also an simple feat. plant health through proper nutrition and impressive feat considering it takes three When I asked Marc, what his take- quality inputs both natural and synthetic, and a half years to grow kentia palm from away has been from this experience, he we see dramatic decreases in fungal and seedlings to seven-gallon pots. They start- said his takeaway is that natural farming algal pathogens in our nurseries.” ed applying a natural farming seedling practices can be both practical, sustainable So Marc, what is your message for other spray and the plants no long exhibited dis- and profitable. While he can’t share the growers? ease symptoms after a half year. This is in company’s exact figures, Kohala Kentia has “THERE are PRACTICAL ALTER- contrast to previous years when the plants reduced their chemical fertilizer input by NATIVES out there that can work on a would become chlorotic and die. Marc has 60% and have utilized more plant-bases commercial scale.” Marc understands only been working here for a year and a pesticides, such as PureCrop1, Regalia, the real risk of making big changes in half, so it is still a little early to tell if this as well as microbial products such as your cultivation practices. Marc hasn’t change is sustainable, but the renewed Effective Microorganisms. These products divorced himself from chemical con- optimism and hope from everyone when are more costly than many other products trol options and conventional farming HAWAIISCAPE.COM 11 Marc holds up two kentia palms removed from three gallon pots for a side by side comparison. The plant on the left is 3 years old and suffers from root rot, as we can see from the lack of root zone and chlorosis. The plant on the right is 2 years old and much healthier. It received foliar nutrition from natural farming and commercial inputs.

12 HAWAII LANDSCAPE MAY | JUNE 2021 What is your hope for the future? “It’s all about education for me, it’s essen- tial to disseminate what we learn and new information to the industry and provide new models of operating and thinking about sustainable agriculture” says Marc. “We need to understand the science behind precision nutrient management, plant immune defense and the various pathways by which biostimulants and nutrients are metabolized by plants. How can we mimic a natural environ- ment versus creating a completely sterile environment that we then try to control. Can we ever truly control nature? We spend a lot of money trying to” explains Marc. Marc reminds us of a Japanese sang “the bigger the front the bigger the back”. George Ohsawa – The Art of Peace Did the promises from the green revo- lution have a hidden long term environ- mental cost? May we keep this phrase in mind as we strive for a more sustainable future. Perhaps, one more thing we can take from Marc’s story is that we can start to examine the preconceived ideas, and misconceptions about alternative farming techniques. Does it truly result in lower yields, does it require more land use? Is it less profitable and can we make such sweeping generalizations across assorted cropping systems? I believe today’s youth are already asking these questions as they try to seek creative sustainable solutions to growing food, flowers, and foliage in a Two benches of kentia palms in three-gallon pots. The plants on the left are 3 years old, while the quickly changing environment. plants on the right are 2 years old.

It is helpful to zoom in on these plants and compare their overall color and quality. Acknowledgements: We would like to acknowledge Master Han-Kyu Cho and the entire Kohala Kentia completely. “Right now, I am using tem that is constantly evolving and smart crew, for without whom none of this would Natural Farming as a supplement, and insects that get used to a certain method be possible. It takes creative problem solving it has been very beneficial to our opera- of farming – thus we must always keep and open minds to try new ways of farming. tion. Most growers work in monocrops, them on their toes. We must plug into the Thanks to everyone’s continued efforts we we are already working in an unnatural, system. Natural farming is of great benefit are able to grow healthy plants again. highly managed system. Everyone in this to Kohala Kentia now, but who knows industry understands the difficulties of what the future holds, perhaps it will have raising a monocrop and the problems that to evolve with the system. Only time will arise from it. I am trying to find more of a tell. balance” Marc explains. He mentions that It is easy to talk to Marc, he is incred- perhaps in the future natural farming will ibly kind, remarkably easy going and very become a bigger part of their operations, bright. The hours we spent talking flew realizing he works with a biological sys- by. I finally asked him one last question.

THE VOICE OF HAWAII’S GREEN INDUSTRY HAWAIISCAPE.COM 13 Oasis Biotech indoor vertical farming facility (controlled environment agriculture) in Las Vegas, NV.

Controlled Environment Agriculture and Artificial Lighting to Grow Plants By Kent Kobayashi, Associate Professor, Fellow, American Society for Horticultural Science. PhD, , Oregon State University. Research on photobiology; controlled environment agriculture; and ().

deally, we would like to grow plants and crops under conditions that are appropriate or optimal for the plants. That is, these conditions meet the requirements of the plants regarding weather (light, temperature, water, humidity, and CO2), soil characteristics and fertility, and the absence of pest pressure. Under these favorable conditions, field produc- Ition of plants can be successful. However, “perfect” conditions are not always present so what can be done? A grower can use controlled environment agriculture (CEA), including the use of artificial lighting, to provide optimal conditions to grow plants. Using CEA, we can mitigate environmental factors that may be unfavorable or lacking. The amount and costs of various inputs for plant production can be reduced.

14 HAWAII LANDSCAPE MAY | JUNE 2021 Controlled environment agriculture Artificial lighting (CEA) Field production of plants has the In contrast to field agriculture, con- advantage of using natural sunlight. trolled environment agriculture (CEA) However, when conditions are not ideal, is the growing of plants in structures such as day length and light intensity, to help better control plant growth and artificial lighting can be used to supple- development by controlling the effects ment sunlight or substitute for sunlight. of external weather and climate fac- In addition, artificial lighting enables tors. The microenvironment within the more precise control and alteration of structure can also be precisely controlled day length, light intensity, light direc- through monitoring both above ground tion, and light spectrum (wavelength). and below ground factors. Conditions within the structure can be corrected or Kinds of artificial lighting brought to more optimal levels includ- Over the years, there have been ing light, air temperature, soil moisture, many kinds of artificial lighting. We have soil temperature, soil fertility, relative seen incandescent lighting, metal halide, humidity, and CO2 level. high-pressure sodium, fluorescent, The ultimate aim for controlled en- compact fluorescent, plasma light, and vironment agriculture is an autonomous light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Nowadays, structure, a “smart” structure that is ca- the most popular lighting are high-pres- pable of running itself with little human sure sodium, LEDs, and high output intervention and monitoring conditions (HO) fluorescent lighting. outside and inside the structure. With I first saw HO fluorescent lighting this information, the CEA structure can at that was being make adjustments such as providing used for their plant growth studies. shading, artificial lighting, misting, ven- These are T5 HO fluorescent lighting, tilation, CO2 enrichment, and irrigation. which are smaller in diameter and are super bright compared to the typical T12 CEA and agricultural sustainability fluorescent lighting. These fixtures come A grower using CEA can better with two, four, or eight in various monitor and modify the environment lengths from two feet and longer. As for their plants and thus provide optimal with other fluorescent lighting, the bulbs conditions for production. Less inputs decrease in light intensity over time and and precision agriculture enable more blacken near the terminals. They require efficient use of inputs for the desired replacement when broken or too dim. outcomes. The grower has better control Fluorescent lighting also has the disad- of environmental factors and is not vantages of high heat production and always at the mercy of the environment. lower light efficiency. LEDs, light-emitting diode lighting, Benefits of CEA have become quite popular recently • Better monitoring and control of with the proliferation of manufacturers, the environment leading to better different kinds of LEDs, and the reduc- control of plant growth and tion in cost. Initially, LEDs were quite development expensive. The early LEDs were light • With protected cultivation, there bulbs that could be screwed into fixtures are less pest problems. that were used for incandescent light- • Reduce the amount of inputs needed ing. There were primarily red LED and through precision agriculture. blue LED bulbs. A shortcoming was the • Precise control so only specific inputs narrow focus of light meaning they were at specific times and locations are bright under the LED and quickly implemented. less intense at wider distances. • More uniform plant growth and LED arrays (fixtures) with different development. kinds of LED light bulbs began to ap- pear.

THE VOICE OF HAWAII’S GREEN INDUSTRY HAWAIISCAPE.COM 15 Light-emitting diode (LED) red bulbs, blue bulbs, and T5 high output (HO) fluorescent lighting.

LED light fixture with interchangeable LED light tubes.

These early arrays were typically square Plasma light fixture and LED light array fixture. or rectangular in shape. Some problems Artificial lighting and agricultural included that the ratio of different color sustainability LED bulbs was fixed (for example, 2:1 Artificial lighting can be sustain- ratio of red to blue LED bulbs) and again able depending on the efficiency of the the light was concentrated under the lighting. For example, LEDs are very fixture. efficient, providing light with less energy Soon, LED light bars (fixtures) usage and little or no heat. LEDs provide resembling fluorescent light fixtures high light intensity for the amount of appeared. These came in various lengths electricity that is used. LEDs last a long such as 2 feet or 4 feet. They offered time and thus do not require frequent the advantage of covering a larger area replacement of bulbs. Because you can with more even lighting. On fixtures customize the light spectrum, it allows that had replaceable light bulbs, you you to use specific wavelengths for the could change LED light tubes that were desired effect you are looking for, e.g., dim or broken. In addition, you could plant height, foliage color, and interchange different types of LED light color. tubes according to your spectral needs, e.g., one red LED light tube and one blue Benefits of artificial lighting LED light tube. • LEDs are light efficient and use less Some of today’s LED fixtures are electricity. Conclusion fully adjustable and ‘smart’, i.e., you • Extend day length. When considering agricultural sustain- can adjust the amount of red, blue, and • Can specify the light spectrum, in ability, controlled environment agri- white light intensity. They have manual particular, with LEDs. culture and the use of artificial lighting switches that let you adjust the amount • Cost of LEDs has come down provide growers with the capability and of the various colors (wavelengths) of compared to a few years ago. option of better controlling the growth light. More sophisticated LED fixtures • Control direction the light comes and development of their plants. are programmable and allow you to ad- from including intracanopy lighting. just different colors, day length, and light • Can specify the color (cool or warm) Kent Kobayashi is the Associate Professor, intensity. These can be programmed and and light spectrum. Fellow, American Society for Horticultural adjusted with a smart table such as an Science. He has a PhD in Horticulture iPad. from Oregon State University.

16 HAWAII LANDSCAPE MAY | JUNE 2021 COMMITTED. CONSULTATIVE. CONNECTED.

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THE VOICE OF HAWAII’S GREEN INDUSTRY HAWAIISCAPE.COM 17 Nursery Industry Involvement with Conservation

By: Molly Murphy

Mark Hanson riving along the road high up on the slopes of Mauna Kea, Mark Hanson suddenly stops the truck, exclaiming, 'Look Dat that sandalwood !! The Sierra Club volunteers planted this four years ago. It's so healthy! How did I miss it until now?" The gorgeous sandalwood, or 'iliahi, hiding inside a clump of māmane (Sophora chryso- phylla), had finally grown big enough to top the canopy and be visible.

Hanson, known as the Sandalwood Man, has been seed collecting, growing, and planting sandalwood (Santalum sp.) since the 1990s. His nonprofit Hawaiian Refor- estation Program estimates 250,000 trees have been sown since inception. His cur- rent focus, reforesting Mauna Kea, began once portions were fenced in 2013. After an extensive survey, he collected sandalwood , then germinated them to outplant in the same area.

It may seem that with a quarter of a million trees planted, his excitement over the sin- gle tree we've stumbled upon is excessive, but his efforts weren't always successful. Of the first 600 seedlings he planted, only five survived! Frustrated, Mark built a nursery at his Big Island home to ensure a strong beginning for each tree. Although his home in Mountain View is not within the usual habitat of 'iliahi, the rainy area turned out Mark Hansen grows sandalwood for outplanting in dry forests on Hawai’i Island. Twice a month, he leads volun- to be perfect for . These days, teers to maintain and monitor their growth. thousands of beautiful keiki trees come to 18 HAWAII LANDSCAPE MAY | JUNE 2021 life under the shade cloth in his back- yard, all neatly lined up in accelerator pots and dibble tubes. Over the years, with more experience, he also learned what worked best to ensure his outplanted seedlings' survival. As we carry our dibble tubes and digging tools under a beautiful blue December sky, Mark instructs me to plant my seedlings close to the māmane clumps, which can provide moisture and protection from harsh conditions. He will return later to weed and fertilize these new growths, ensuring they get enough of an edge to survive the aggressive grasses surrounding us.

The most critical ingredient for the success of Mark's program isn't water or nutrients, though: it's volunteers. Mark relies on charitable donations and volunteer effort to bring the forest back to this part of Mauna Kea. He gets help from many groups like the Sierra Club, including students from the Forest TEAM program at Hawai'i Community College and even young kids: his first Mark ‘The Sandalwood Man’ at his Plant Pono endorsed nurs- volunteer sandalwood outplanting was ery proudly holding a sandalwood he grew from seed. in 2014 with a local Girl Scout troop. He points out those outplantings to me, ever seen. Seeds were falling off the tree ish. 'Ohe makai is so rare and beautiful!" now strong, healthy trees topping six like rain! Mark took this as a sign that feet. he should pursue his vision, and since Most mornings at his Mountain View then, his program has developed to grow home, Mark dines on roasted sandal- Mark's passion for the native forest, flute sandalwood on a massive scale in a way nuts and coffee. He hopes that playing, and deep sandalwood knowl- that had not been attempted before. one day, Hawai'i will have a value-added, edge have created something of a leg- sustainable industry from pressed san- endary character. People are drawn from Mark diversified his native plant grow- dalwood nuts. The oil, used for all kinds all over the state to work alongside the ing over the years, in part to support his of skin ailments, fetches a high price. Sandalwood Man, and his field trips do 'iliahi. Sandalwoods are semi-parasitic. There is potential….if enough trees are not disappoint. He might take you to the Drawing nutrients from neighboring planted. But after more than a decade of 'hugging tree,' a 40-foot tall old-growth plants, sandalwood thrives best in a work, Mark Hanson has lost none of his remnant sandalwood that survived de- synergetic relationship with other native passion for the project. The Sandalwood cades of unfettered grazing and massive trees. Koa, a nitrogen fixer, is the best Man plans to be out there, gently placing harvesting of native sandalwood. He is tree to partner with sandalwood. ‘Akoko new saplings into the ground for years a storyteller, entertaining companions (Euphorbia sp), 'a'ali'i (Dodonaea viscosa), to come. with tales of his planting adventures ko'oko'olau (Bidens sp.) are other good and sharing the vision that led him here. partner plants. Surprisingly, Mark's For dryland native plants and forestry proj- He tells of how early in his sandalwood favorite native species is not iliahi, but ects, contact him at 808-769-0683 journey, intending to plant on the slopes the less flashy 'ohe makai (Polyscias or [email protected]. of Haleakalā; he was granted permission sandwicensis). Mark fondly describes it to collect seeds from Polipoli State For- as a rock buster. He gushes, "the Jill Wagner est on Maui. Sadly, only two seeds were of 'ohe makai grow on bare rock, slowly Jill Wagner, owner of Future Forest found. But Mark's son encouraged his they penetrate and break up the rock in Nursery and seed-banking expert, has Dad not to give up, so they made their search of nutrients and moisture. This spent a lifetime immersed in a love and way to the first sandalwood Mark had species survives where other plants per- study of plants, and now she is using her THE VOICE OF HAWAII’S GREEN INDUSTRY HAWAIISCAPE.COM 19 Now, her hard-earned knowledge is expanding to a global community: as head forester for the innovative start- up Terraformation, Jill is part of a new effort to combat climate change through forest restoration around the world. Ter- raformation is different from traditional forest restoration in that a key goal is economic development. Therefore, each management plan includes an econom- ically viable agroforestry effort. 'When people practice agroforestry, they often use the same ten plants: cacao, coffee, etc. We take a regional approach to our global project. What are the native overstory trees? What can be grown in the understory to create regional eco- nomic opportunities? It is a marriage of economics and native biodiversity." Jill's botanical expertise is critical in develop- ing regional management plans, iden- tifying and evaluating the native plant communities.

The funding comes from angel inves- tors committed to supporting innova- tive ideas to address the world's most pressing challenges. Silicon Valley-based

Jill Wagner, owner of Future Forests Nursery, LLC, is a well-respected consultant Terraformation partners used their engi- for landscape design and practical restoration. neering skills to create a free pre-plant- ing app, launching in February 2021. The passion and expertise to combat Earth's For over eight years, Jill volunteered at app will allow users to store and retrieve biggest challenge: climate change. Amy Greenwell gardens in Kealakekua, data about individual plants used in seed giving tours and working in the nurs- collection and outplanting and enable Growing up, her family regularly visited ery. Her restoration work is grounded site managers to create a map with a botanical gardens, and she was drawn to in the formative experience of growing detailed history of a restoration site. move to Hawai'i in the early 1990s with native plants there and on her property. Terence Mckenna, the American ethno- Over the years, she built a reputation as Terraformation has sought to use botanist, writer, and philosopher. Jill ab- a restoration expert in Hawai'i, bring- technology to improve one of the big- sorbed much of his botanical knowledge ing degraded landscapes back to life as gest hurdles to successful restoration: and decided to pursue her diverse, flourishing forests. seed-banking. For both agriculture degree at the University of Hawai'i at and forestry, seed banking is a crucial Hilo. Together, while propagating a vast "My favorite project right now is one in endeavor in today's world of fires, floods, array of plants, she and Terence dove Kohala," she says. "It's a blank slate, just invasive pests, and climate change. deep into and plant origins. an abandoned pasture. Historically it However, it takes a dry, climate-con- "Knowing where a plant is from helps to was a koai'a forest. Our goal is to return trolled environment and adequate understand its uses, its place on Earth," the land to its original state. Last year space to store seeds properly. But as Jill says." A sophisticated plant lover we planted ‘a‘ali‘i (Dodonaea viscosa), any grower who has tried to raise new learns about the natives in that region. wiliwili (Erythrina sandwicensis), and of plants from seed can tell you, the seeds Almost anything in the world can be course, koai'a (Acacia koaia); all were themselves aren't always cooperative. grown in Hawai'i. But people seem to small plants. Now they are several feet Consider the beloved ‘ōhi‘a (Metrosideros favor certain plant groups, bamboo, tall. The champion koai'a is 3 feet tall! polymorpha), now facing an existential bromeliads…it limits plant exposure and Restoration is happening right before threat in the form of rapid ‘ōhi‘a death interest.' our eyes." (ROD): the seeds have only a 20% germi-

20 HAWAII LANDSCAPE MAY | JUNE 2021 nation rate! Terraformation has devel- hotspot into a wasteland. With our help, Aileen jokes. For many years at C. Brew- oped a new technology, using x-rays to over 600 acres will be restored to their er's BioEnergy Development Corp, she measure a seed's viability, so that time natural state." grew trees for Hawai'i's burgeoning bio- and space are not wasted storing seeds Without collaboration, none of this fuel industry. Her intentions were good: that will never produce. Sowing only would be a reality. Angel investors want "Locally grown cuts our energy viable seeds saves the nursery industry to make the world a better place, but dependence, helping Hawai'i be inde- soil, pots, table space, water, and manual they don't know about seed banking, pendent. It's a win-win with Hawai'i's labor - and the whole thing fits into a plant cultivation, and restoration. The carbon footprint. Growing trees seques- 40-foot container! new technology invented by engineers ter carbon, and less fuel use importing will enable anyone with the desire to energy all means less global warming." In the works are plans for a video series, store and sow seeds. Add in Jill Wagner, apps, management plan, and new the restoration expert, and it all comes However, through her career, she began technology, all with a commitment to together seamlessly. to develop a deeper understanding of being carbon-neutral and resource-con- invasive species' problem. After obtain- servative. Thanks to affordable solar For more information about these global ing a degree in Horticulture, Nursery power, water filters with desalination projects with a regional approach, go to Management, and Research; Aileen capabilities will be included not only for terraformation.com. Jill Wagner can be was hired by the Hawai'i Agricultural irrigation but also for the people of that reached at 808-325-2377 or trees@forest- Research Center (HARC) to research the region to use. The hoped-for outcomes nursery.com. potential for cultivation of various crops are carbon sequestration, clean wa- here in the islands, in lieu of importing ter, and economic opportunity in that Aileen Yeh them. Live plant materials have long region. Aileen Yeh, owner of Po'o Wai U nursery been vectors of introduction for pests on the Big Island, has been a pillar of the and diseases that negatively impact Ha- Jill is excited about her current proj- nursery industry for many years. waii's forest and farms - in fact, a 2015 ect with Terraformation in Uganda. report from the USDA found that live "Logging, agriculture, and drilling 'I grow native plants to make up for all plants were the most important source transformed much of this biodiversity the Eucalyptus I grew early in my career,' of new damaging invasives. Reducing

THE VOICE OF HAWAII’S GREEN INDUSTRY HAWAIISCAPE.COM 21 live plant' importation significantly re- other pests. Aileen identified more than LARGEST NURSERY SELECTION ON KAUAI 60,000 SF 150 Acres of Plants & Material duces the risk of new invasive pests and a dozen non-invasive tree species that pathogens arriving in Hawai'i, a critical offered the desired characteristics that part of improving Hawaii's biosecurity, people like to see in their Christmas tree something Aileen is highly committed and tested growing them in different en- to. vironments and conditions. She was en- LIC.ABC-10825 couraged by the results in several trials: After the Austropuccinia rust became three years in, there are some promising 808-245-7747 established, likely from imported plants outcomes, including stone pines and a 3-1550 Kaumualii Hwy of the Myrtaceae family, HARC saw few Cyprus species that grow quickly Lihue, Kauai, HI 96766 the need to research the feasibility of even in lower elevations. Unfortunately, CERTIFIED EXPORT NURSERY locally grown Myrtaceae species, mostly many of Aileen's test sites failed to pro- INTERISLAND SHIPPING ornamental Eucalyptus. Since ‘ōhi‘a is a duce results as saplings were destroyed member of the Myrtaceae family and a by feral pigs: her recommendations to LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE keystone species for native forests, this growers now stress the importance of & DESIGN/BUILD research is crucial. Aileen began testing fencing around young trees. RESORT, COMMERCIAL the cultivation of species important to & RESIDENTIAL and horticulture. Her work The Christmas tree project is fun, but INSTALLATION / MAINTENANCE proved some crops had potential; others growing native plants and knowing were unsuccessful. friends and customers will plant them CERTIFIED LANDSCAPE TECHNICIANS is most gratifying to Aileen. Her early ARBORISTS One of the crops Aileen has been work with Donovan Goo, restoring parts IRRIGATION DESIGN focused on in the past several years is of Ka‘ūpūlehu, piqued her interest in INSTALLATION/REPAIR Christmas trees Thousands of trees are native plants. Today she is an esteemed imported to Hawai'i from the mainland native plant grower. "I love all native Mon. - Fri. 7:30-5 / Sat. 7:30-4 each year, each container bringing with it plants, but ‘ōhi‘a, alani (Melicope sp), and www.kauainursery.com [email protected] the risk of wasps, slugs, snakes, and many kopiko (Psychotria hawaiiensis) are my Toll Free: 888-345-7747 Fax: 808-245-9289

ʻŌhiʻa grown by Aileen Yeh at Po'o Wai U nursery. New research indicates Koa saplings grown by Aileen Yeh at Po'o Wai U nursery. your ʻōhiʻa saplings are not prone to Rapid ʻōhiʻ Death (ROD).

22 HAWAII LANDSCAPE MAY | JUNE 2021 favorites," she confides. "Sharing seeds says. "An example is an area where we Much of the conservation in Hawai'i and plants, working with other growers, fenced off some native Loulu (Pritchar- begins in a greenhouse with a single helping new growers, and dia beccariana), which were in decline. nursery manager. Whether the plants hearing from customers and friends After ungulate proof fencing, many new are to reforest Mauna Kea or transform how healthy and big the plants I started seedlings started popping up through landscapes in Kohala to their original make it all worth it." the grass, and seeds could be collected state or rehabilitate loulu forests, none and grown out for outplanting. Before would be possible without Mark Han- Her nursery, Po'o Wai U, is a highly the fence, ungulates and rats were eating sen, Jill Wagner, and Aileen Yeh. These regarded native plant contract-grower the seeds."If you want to incorporate humble growers spend their days culti- for land managers and landowners. The native plants into a landscape, Aileen vating essential plants to make Hawai'i nursery is a mix of hardwoods, native recommends that you first determine and the wider world a better place for dryland species, and native wetland if the species be suited to the area. If all. Not only that, all three teach species, all in various pot sizes. Proper you aren't sure, try a few that are from others their craft to carry on the cycle irrigation is a challenge. As a con- that ecoregion. For larger native plant of conservation. tract-growing business, the customer projects, she advises, "Notify the nurs- isn't always ready to pick up their plants eries far in advance, especially smaller Molly Murphy is the Plant Pono Specialist on time. Often the extra inputs like nurseries that don't have a lot of space. for the Big Island Invasive Species water, pest control, fertilizer, and space Many native species take a long time to Committee. For questions on Plant Pono can be costly. No business is without grow to a good planting size, while some or invasive plants, contact her at challenge and hardship, so Aileen will grow fairly quickly and become pot [email protected]. remembers to appreciate the joys in her bound if not planted out." line of work. For more information on contract-grow- "My biggest joys are seeing a landscape ing, contact Aileen Yeh of Po'o Wai U I helped to restore, with seed-produc- nursery at [email protected]. ing plants growing happily," Aileen

THE VOICEUntitled-5 OF HAWAII’S 1 GREEN INDUSTRY HAWAIISCAPE.COM11/9/20 2:15 PM 23 Ditch Steaming.

Weed Steaming: A Sustainable Weed Control Alternative Interview by Hannah Lutgen, CTAHR extension agent

recently had the pleasure to interview Robin Proctor, founder of Weedsteam Hawai'i, a Native Hawaiian owned, and operated business dedicated to providing innovative weed control. Without further ado, let’s meet Robin and learn Iabout weed steaming!

Safe enough to drink!

24 HAWAII LANDSCAPE MAY | JUNE 2021 Above, left-inset: Robin Proctor, Founder of Weedsteam Hawai‘i. Above: Resort steaming along the ocean.

Q: Hello, thanks for meeting with me. We offer weed steaming services and We can steam in any weather condi- Please tell us a little bit about yourself. are the exclusive dealers of the weed tions; ranging from heavy winds and A:Basically, I’m a passionate, driven steam machines. rain. Weed steaming kills weed seeds woman that wants to make a positive and plants. Sometimes weed steaming impact on the world by reducing pesti- Q: Do you provide services or assist initiates seed germination depending cide use. I want to provide the people people on all islands (Hawai'i, Kaua'i, on the plant, however, a second treat- of Hawai’i another option for weed Oahu, Kaua'i, Maui, Moloka‘i, Lanai, ment will kill anything sprouting up. control. Niihau)? Currently, we provide weed control ser- Q. Which types of weeds does weed Q. Please tell us about your business, vices to Maui island. However, we can steaming effectively kill? Weedsteam Hawai'i, and the services recommend service providers on other A: I haven’t experienced a weed we that you provide. islands. We are the exclusive dealers couldn’t kill or at least knock back. If A: Weedsteam Hawai’i focuses on pro- of the machines we use for the state of you can kill the top of the plant, then viding zero chemical weed control using Hawai’i. any parts that resprout, you are serious- a patented process called Satusteam, ly damaging the plant's underground 100% boiling hot water! This technique Q. How does weed steaming work? energy reserves. Over a short period originating in Australia over 20 years A: The weed steam machine heats water of time weed steaming will deplete ago is now available in the US and our to 250ºF, we use special applicator heads plants' stored energy. Using our spike company represents Hawai’i. Since for different weed situations (farm to get down 7” below ground along the 2020 we have been successful at killing row crops, roadside, individual plants root zone seriously damages unwanted hard to kill weeds like guinea grass, or large areas). The applicator heads plants. We have effectively killed guin- cane grass, glycine and even gorse and release saturated steam which kills the ea grass, cane grass, blackberry, rasp- blackberry. We are currently research- vegetation. The superheated water , glycine and gorse. We are also ing how saturated steam can help kill explodes the plant cells on contact. We exploring satusteam effects on other rust, fungus, various invasive pests and also have various spikes that we use to invasive species like plant diseases and diseases. Our mission is to help reduce apply steam underground which targets insect pests. herbicide and pesticide use in the state, and kills the roots. Some plants don’t to give people and land management need this extra step, but it's great to Q. Can you weed steam next to trees agencies one more option that works. have this tool when needed to kill the and and perennials? deep rooted weeds. THE VOICE OF HAWAII’S GREEN INDUSTRY HAWAIISCAPE.COM 25 Steaming gravel.

26 HAWAII LANDSCAPE MAY | JUNE 2021 A: Yes, we have special applicator heads that keep steam away from stems and trunks, as well as keeping bark and mulch from being displaced.

Q. Will you please explain current applications (or uses) of weed steaming in Hawai’i? A: We’ve been hired to kill weeds along sidewalks, around road signs and along highways, in ditches, around solar panels, hiking paths, around schools, playgrounds, pastures, farms and along areas between resorts and the ocean. In addition to weed killing, you can also use our machines for sanitizing surfaces, removing , mold, mildew and even gum.

Q: When operating weed steaming machines are there any human safety or fire hazard concerns? A: We recommend not touching the boiler part of the machine, this can be hot. Fire hazard is the same as any enclosed hot water generating machine.

Q. What are the benefits of weed steaming? A: Weed steaming is an effective form Robin steaming. of weed control that can be used in any weather. There is no chemical drift or overspray concern, publically support- ed, kills seeds, no special certification needed, environmentally friendly, 100% water. Immediate results, plant right after steaming no need to wait!

Q. Why is weed steaming a sustainable approach? A: Weed steaming is 100% water. Steam from heated water kills vegetation and this clean water remains in the soil. Carbon footprint is similar to weed whacking in that the weed steam ma- chines use gasoline for power, there are no chemicals used.

Q. Thanks for your time. What is the best way to contact you? Robin Leimomi Proctor [email protected] Guinea grass after 1 steam. 808-344-9274

THE VOICE OF HAWAII’S GREEN INDUSTRY HAWAIISCAPE.COM 27 PEST COLUMN BY: ALLISON WRIGHT, MAINTENANCE & NURSERY SUPERINTENDENT – ISLAND PLANT COMPANY, LLC Common Pests of Coconuts in Hawai‘i

Fringed aphids in all developmental stages, showing large amounts of honeydew on the foliage. A lady beetle larvae is also present, eating the young aphids.

oconut palms are integral to aphids, trimming the palm will remove injury resembles salt spray or wind the ambiance of Hawaiian large numbers, but be sure to control ants damage to the foliage, but rather than just landscapes and are also a vital as they will farm the population. If you damage on the tips, the injury appears part of Hawaiian culture. can reach the canopy of the palm, you throughout the length of the leaflet. CThere are several common pests found may be able to use a variety of contact Minor infestations are unappealing to throughout Hawaii on these iconic plants. insecticides. Systemic insecticides are also view but can be left on the palm, to be Issues on mature palms are notoriously effective. removed during routine trimming. Heavy difficult to diagnose due to the inability infestations cause declining health as to directly view the insect so be sure to Blue coconut beetle, Brontispa the palm cannot create enough energy. know the symptoms of each. Strong chalybeipennis, feeds by scraping off the Eulopid wasps do parasitize the larval winds with storms in late winter cause outer layer of the leaflet, leaving a brown stages of the beetle but will be blown away surging insect populations as the larval or silvering look from the ground. The in high winds. stages are dispersed in the wind and natural predators are carried away. Many of these pests are opportunistic, so keep your palms strong and healthy through good management practices. Here are a few common issues with coconut palms in Hawaii.

Cerataphis spp., the fringed aphid, lives on the underside of the palm fronds. Damage from the blue coconut beetle eating The small, round, black aphid has a white Eggs of the blue coconut beetle the outer surface of the leaflet skirt, making it resemble a soft scale. Populations surge in June to July. You will likely not see the aphid itself but will notice profuse amounts of honeydew dropping onto surfaces below, causing damage to paint and tiles. You can clean a surface, and, within an hour, see new, extremely sticky drops. In heavy infestations, the foliage will look glossy and wet from the honeydew, noticeable even from the ground. To control the Damage from the blue coconut beetle Blue Coconut beetles feeding in crown” as seen from the ground Photo credit: Hannah Lutgen 28 HAWAII LANDSCAPE MAY | JUNE 2021 Endemic to Hawaii, Hedylepta blackburni, Banana moth found the coconut leafroller, is a member of the moth inside coconut palm. family, also infesting Pritchardia spp. Silk threads are used to roll the leaflet for protection as the larvae eats it down to the spine. Severely damaged fronds will have almost no green material left. There are naturally occurring predators. Be patient for the palm to grow and remove the damaged foliage during Foliage damage from the coconut leaf roller routine trimming.

Damage from coconut mites is not generally seen in landscape conditions as palms are trimmed when the seeds are small. In retail situations or farms, the damage from these mites causes aesthetic issues and can reduce the crop output as the nuts may drop prematurely. Aceria guerreronis is a nearly microscopic pest that lives under the of the seed that forms the Larval stage of the coconut leaf roller cap-like structure holding the nut onto the stem. protected by silk pulling the leaflets together. As the nut ages, pale yellow areas form from the cap down the sides of the nut. These areas turn brown, cracking the outer surface. Severe infestations can cause premature drop. Control Let our Association Health Plan take is best achieved by removing infected nuts as the mites have a rapid, 10-day maturity rate. care of your group health insurance needs Banana moths, Opogona sacchari, are small, unimpressive looking pests that cause a great deal • Potential savings on insurance costs of damage in palms throughout Hawaii. They are not only found in coconuts but almost all other • No fixed enrollment period palms in Hawaii, along with a variety of trees and • Wide array of benefit plans shrubs. These moths seek out plants weakened from other pests or diseases. They are also • Value-added healthcare solutions attracted to any wound sites on the palms, such as those from routine pruning or machine damage. The moths lay eggs in the wounded areas of the plant, then the one-inch larvae burrow into the , eating both living and dead material. Because they are often in the crown of the palm, symptoms such as falling leaves or drooping crowns are often the first visible signs. This can often be too late to save a palm. In young, or shorter plants, frass from the feeding larvae can be observed. If symptoms are observed in one palm, nearby plants should be inspected and treated appropriately. Keep the plants healthy with proper irrigation and fertilizer.

For information about diseases found in coconut palms in Hawaii, please refer to future issues of this Hawaii Landscape Magazine.

Allison Wright is the Maintenance & Nursery Superintendent – Island Plant Company, LLC. She is the Co-Owner of Valhalla Flower Farm, LLC Don’t delay ... Contact us today! hmaa.com/healthplans • 808.791.7616

THE VOICE OF HAWAII’S GREEN INDUSTRY HAWAIISCAPE.COM 29 TOOL TIPS BY PHYLLIS JONES, OWNER OF A TO Z EQUIPMENT AND SALES

SUSTAINABILITY – THOUGHTS ON THE NEW NORMAL

ustainability focuses on meeting the TAKE NOTHING FOR GRANTED. Within the industry, there were signif- needs of the present without compro- Am I sure that the product that I sell have icant changes which started early last year mising the ability of future generations value? What makes them valuable even during and created a new layer of uncertainty. Many to meet their needs—capable of being uncertain times ? Will the machine that you are manufacturers have changed distributors, sustained.S thinking of buying ultimately save you money? going with large distributors that have more After living through one year of the pan- Are parts readily available for these machines? widespread, national recognition. Freight rates demic—mask wearing; hand sanitizing; social Will your employees be able to use them with- have increased. Most gas powered equipment distancing; no eating out; no family gatherings; out extensive training? How will it affect your manufacturers have added a heavy dose of no regular school schedule—we are probably labor costs? “Old” questions, but asked during battery powered equipment. This may reflect eagerly awaiting a return to the “good old days”. “new” times. What will the answers be? their concern that EPA regulations may become Business was predictable, and we could sense more stringent, (This may work for “Joe the ebb and flow of the business cycle; the ASSUME NOTHING. homeowner”, but for us commercial people, we seasonal changes. The pandemic has put an How will the landscape industry be impacted? are left with fewer gas models from which to end to that. We cannot say with certainty what With so many segments of the economy being choose. For dealers, how to provide a mix of, will be coming next, or when it will be coming. affected, will our industry feel the effects of the gas-powered and battery operated units can be Most businesses like predictability and thrive on slowing economy? With revenue shrinking in a difficult decision, especially when :buy ins” some degree of certainty. Since the pandem- so many areas, will we still be able to survive are big, and manufacturers want dealers to sell ic, all we are certain of is that the grass will without making adjustments to expenses? How both. Dealers today, compete with not only box continue to grow and trees will need pruning. long will it take for the economy to recover stores, but on-line sellers as well. How long There is no certainty of how we will be able to and what do we do until then. When it does can a business afford to have unsold inventory meet the demand or even what the demand recover, what will it look like. Will we regret the on their shelves? will be. When we see the big box stores with choices that we made. We are all confronted with challenges on a empty shelves, we realize that we are not alone It is difficult to ponder these questions daily basis, but rarely do we have an opportuni- in trying to predict what the end will look like. when we have to confront the daily realities of ty to make choices about an unknown future. In all honesty, I have to say, I welcomed survival and when we only have uncertainty Hopefully, we have used this time wisely. the “new” challenges that this pandemic has before us. There is no past history to study and Hopefully, you all are well and in good brought. New questions with no answers. It no “rules” to guide us. For some businesses there health. forced me to re-evaluate how I was going to be has been little or no change. Others have been sustainable in business through what seemed forced to pay greater attention to pricing, stock- Phyllis Jones is the owner of A to Z Equipment and like an endless period. Here are some of my ing levels, and what their competitors are doing. Sales. thoughts.

30 HAWAII LANDSCAPE MAY | JUNE 2021 THE VOICE OF HAWAII’S GREEN INDUSTRY HAWAIISCAPE.COM 31 Pacifi c Pipe Landscape Hawaii Nov/Dec 2020 FP w/bleed (7”x 9.5”) 4C Ship date: 09.24.20

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